October 8, 2021
Cold Dew or Hán Lù (Chinese: 寒露) is the seventeenth of the 24 traditional Chinese solar terms and marks a turn toward colder weather. The dew that condenses during the cold of night will become frost as the season progresses. During this time, temperatures are much lower, with rain in many parts of the country. Autumn crops will begin to ripen. This is also the time of year when chrysanthemums bloom. In Chinese culture, chrysanthemum symbolizes nobleness, gracefulness and purity. Chinese artists and poets throughout history have referred to the flower in their works, and there are traditions of admiring chrysanthemum blossoms during this period of time.
Here are some useful health cultivation tips for Cold Dew (Hán Lù):
1. Health cultivation for this season continues to be focused on nurturing Yin energy, and on nourishing both the Lungs and Stomach organs
2. With dryness a prominent environmental feature during this period, it is important to protect the Lungs from the dryness, especially for the elderly and people with Lung and other chronic ailments.
3. Food that will help nurture Yin and nourish the Lungs & Stomach include:
• Fruits and vegetables such as pears, persimmons, bananas, carrots, lotus-root, mushrooms, raw honey, etc.
• Chrysanthemum tea
• Dietary herbs such as Shan Yao (Rhizoma Dioscoreae, or Mountain Yam), Bai He (Bulbus Lilii, or Lily Bulbs), Yin Er / Bai Mu Er (Tremella or Wood Ear), Lian Zi (Semen Nelumbinis or Lotus Seed), etc.
4. Avoid spicy and pungent food
5. Regular, brisk outdoor activities will ensure smooth flow of the body’s Qi and energy
6. With the transition to much cooler temperatures, dress appropriately to keep the body, especially the feet warm.
For more information on seasonal health cultivation, schedule an appointment with one of our student interns or licensed practitioners at the Yo San University Blount Community Clinic. Tele-health consultations are also offered by our experienced senior practitioners. Call today. 310.577.3006.